October 28, 2019 - Joshua Brady, interim director of the Department of Mining and Industrial Extension in the Benjamin M. Statler College of Engineering and Mineral Resources at West Virginia University, has been selected as the department’s permanent director, effective Oct. 27, 2019.

“I want to build on our amazing success in serving the great state of West Virginia,” Brady said. “We have expanded our horizon within the mining community across the country and even globally. The West Virginia Manufacturing Extension Partnership is working all over the state to increase productivity, lower costs and increase employee retention.”

Joshua Brady

Brady has been a member of the extension faculty since 2014, he also directs operations at WVU’s Academy for Mine Training and Energy Technologies, training more than 4,000 miners annually. He previously served in safety-related positions with Murray American Energy Corporation, CONSOL Energy and the U.S. Department of Labor’s Mine Safety and Health Administration.

“I look forward to providing leadership to our extremely talented and passionate staff and working to uphold the values of West Virginia University,” Brady said.

Brady holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and technology from Fairmont State University and has a master’s degree in safety management from WVU.

“Being selected for this position is a humbling experience,” Brady said. “In knowing the heart of the department and drive of the individuals who make it up, their talents and extreme thirst for achievement sets the bar at a high level. I’m grateful for all the support through the process not only from those inside WVU but also many of our valued clients.”

He replaces Jim Dean, who served as director for 25 years and will continue as an extension agent.